What Ayurveda says about Water intake-in relation with food?

Every one of us must have heard of the phrase “Water Is life”. As much cliché as it sounds it is by far one of the most true phrases also. Water is most important substance on the earth & so in human body. Every living organism uses water in one or other manner for the survival. Water is essential for every process in human body, from digestion to circulation. We all know that we should drink plenty of water every day but not many of us know that when & how much water we should drink while having our food. Whenever one gets sick, basic question arises is what are the dietary habits of that person but we forget to consider the water drinking habits. Well, Ayurveda gives it an importance. Ones water drinking habits while having foods can really affect the health in profound manner. So here is what Ayurveda says about water intake in relation with food.

• Water taken before eating suppresses the power of digestion.
• During the process of eating, water taken in small quantity, stimulates digestion and Water taken on excess fetters digestion and dilutes nutrients.
• Water taken after meal causes weight gain.
• Therefore frequent intake of water in small quantities is recommended.
• During meal only one third capacity of stomach should be filled with water
• Ayurveda recommends drinking of warm water over cold water because it is light, digestive & stimulating.

There is no doubt that water is essential for good health. Water along with other liquids help break down food so that our body can absorb the nutrients and it also softens the stool & prevents constipation. But drinking it frequently in small quantities with food is what Ayurveda advice instead of drinking too much before, after or while having food.

So Stay Hydrated & Stay Healthy.